Download pdf - Balagokulam
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May<br />
Dharma<br />
Vastu Shastra<br />
Vastu is the ancient Hindu science of design and architecture with roots in Vedic<br />
philosophy. Vastu in Sanskrit means nature, a surrounding or environment. The principles<br />
of Vastu Shastra evolved over thousands of years of experience and foresight of ancient<br />
Hindu sages and are very valuable for the well being of mankind even in the present day.<br />
The principles for constructing buildings were laid down taking into consideration the<br />
Pancha Bhootas (five elements), namely Earth, Space, Air, Fire and Water. The gravitational<br />
and magnetic effects and rotational influences of Sun, Moon, Earth and other planets on<br />
the life in Earth were also considered. Keeping in mind these factors ensured that there is<br />
balance and harmony between man, nature and his buildings and thereby ensured peace,<br />
prosperity and happiness.<br />
There is an interesting story in the Matsya Purana in which the birth of the Vastu<br />
Purusha is narrated. By reading that story one knows why the worship of the Vastu Purusha<br />
is necessary before beginning constructing any house.<br />
There once lived a brutal demon who caused havoc on the terrestrial and celestial<br />
worlds alike. Even Lord Brahma, Shiva and other Rakshashas (demons) were terrified. Lord<br />
Brahma along with 45 celestial beings encircled the demon and pinned him down with each<br />
celestial being sitting at a specfic position where he now lives in the mandala.<br />
The demon then asked Lord Brahma to grant him some relief since it would impossible<br />
to stay like that. Eventually Brahma declared that he would gain fame as “Vastu Purusha” as<br />
the Lord of Construction. Not only that Brahma also insisted that Vastu Purusha was to ensure<br />
the happiness of those who offered prayers and solicited his blessings before construction.<br />
The 45 deities remained in position and became associated with each direction. Lord<br />
Brahma finally said that all buildings should be oriented and constructed in such a manner<br />
that they kept both the presiding deities and the Vastu Purusha happy, comfortable and<br />
contended.<br />
are:<br />
The principal Gods/ presiding deities of each direction also called the Ashtadikpala<br />
• Northeast (Eeshanya): Ruled by Lord of all quarters or Eeshwara Siva (Religions, Luck<br />
and Faith).<br />
24<br />
Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)
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